Detachable Gas Key Interlock for Firearm Bolt Carrier
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current firearms, particularly those in the Stoner pattern family, face issues with faster reload, firing rate, reduced failure rate, and easier operation due to leakage and clogging in the gas passage and gas hole interface, leading to decreased performance.
Innovation Solution
A detachable gas key with an improved interlock mechanism that includes a gas key interlock portion and a bolt carrier interlock portion, providing a secure mechanical fit and sealing interface to prevent gas leakage and enhance the connection between the gas key and bolt carrier, using a half-dovetail style joint or other secure attachment methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a standard gas key with fasteners is used, then the gas key can be attached to the bolt carrier, but gas leakage occurs at the interface and the connection is prone to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The gas key attachment system is divided into multiple interlocking segments: the gas key interlock portion with interlocking surfaces, the bolt carrier interlock portion with corresponding receptacles, and fasteners. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while working together to create a reliable, leak-proof connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The gas key interlock portion and bolt carrier interlock portion are merged through interlocking surfaces that directly mate with each other, creating a unified connection structure. This merging eliminates gaps and interfaces that could allow gas leakage, while the combined structure with multiple attachment points distributes stress and improves reliability.
2Strength
If multiple fasteners are used to secure the gas key, then the connection strength is improved, but the device complexity and assembly time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is segmented into the interlock portions (which provide structural alignment and initial connection) and the fasteners (which provide secure locking). This segmentation allows the interlock portions to handle alignment and positioning while fasteners provide the securing function, reducing overall complexity compared to using only multiple fasteners.
Solution Approach 2:
The interlock portions act as intermediaries between the gas key and bolt carrier, providing a mechanical interface that simplifies the connection process. These interlocking surfaces guide the alignment and reduce the precision requirements for fastener installation, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining connection strength.
3Reliability
If the gas key is firmly attached to maintain sealing, then gas leakage is prevented, but the stress on fasteners increases leading to potential failure
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function and structural attachment function are merged into a single interlocking system. The interlocking surfaces between the gas key interlock portion and bolt carrier interlock portion create both the seal and the structural connection, eliminating the need for fasteners to bear the full sealing load and distributing stress across multiple contact points.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system allows for dynamic stress distribution through the interlocking surfaces that can flex and adjust under pressure. This dynamic capability allows the connection to maintain sealing under varying pressure conditions while distributing fastener stress more evenly, preventing localized overload and potential failure.
4Device complexity
If a simple attachment method is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but gas leakage and clogging occur at the gas passage interface
Solution Approach 1:
The interlock portions are designed with specific local features: interlocking surfaces with precise geometry, sealing surfaces with appropriate finish and configuration, and alignment features. These localized quality enhancements at critical interfaces prevent gas leakage and clogging without requiring complex mechanisms throughout the entire attachment system.
Data Source
AI summary
A detachable Gas Key, which attaches to a Bolt Carrier, which provides gas to power the action of a semi automatic or select fire firearm. Improvements are made in both the attachment strength, as well as a significantly improved seal between the Gas Key and the Bolt Carrier.